At our recent Dumpster Day at Trinity Lutheran Church, District 4 residents came together to help remove unwanted trash, debris, and bulky items from their homes and neighborhoods. By the end of the event, residents had filled six large bins, helping make a visible difference in the community. Events like this are a simple but important way to support cleaner neighborhoods and give residents convenient access to disposal resources. Thank you to everyone who participated and helped keep District 4 clean.
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619-236-6644 | HenryFoster@SanDiego.gov | @CD4Foster |
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A MESSAGE FROM COUNCILMEMBER FOSTER |
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Dear Neighbors,
October is here, and with it comes a busy season for our communities and our families.
This month, we continue recognizing Hispanic Heritage Month, Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Filipino American History Month, while also looking ahead to Halloween and several family-friendly events taking place throughout District 4. I hope you’ll take some time to enjoy the season, connect with your neighbors and check our community calendar for upcoming events happening near you.
As we head into the final months of the year and begin gearing up for the holiday season, there is also a lot happening at City Hall and across our neighborhoods. In this month’s newsletter, I’m sharing updates on issues involving our streets, transportation, City services, public assets and other matters that directly affect the quality of life in District 4.
My office remains focused on ensuring our communities are informed, represented and receive the attention they deserve. I encourage you to read through this month’s updates, stay connected with our office and continue letting us know what you are seeing and experiencing in your neighborhood.
I look forward to seeing many of you out in the community this month.
Let's continue building a stronger District 4, together. |
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Henry L. Foster III City of San Diego |
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STRENGTHENING OVERSIGHT OF CITY-OWNED GOLF PROPERTIES |
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As Chair of the Budget and Government Efficiency Committee, I have been clear that the City must do a better job managing public assets and protecting taxpayer dollars. On August 25, a recent audit of the City’s leased golf properties was presented to Council. It found gaps in oversight, including infrequent inspections, expired leases operating in holdover and limited performance tracking.
These properties generate significant revenue, and the City has a responsibility to make sure lease terms are current, fair and in the best interest of San Diego taxpayers. I supported the audit recommendations and called for stronger accountability, better tracking and more timely lease negotiations so the City is not leaving money on the table or allowing outdated agreements to continue unchecked.
Being a good steward of taxpayer dollars means knowing the value of what we own, holding operators accountable and making sure every agreement serves the public interest. |
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STANDING AGAINST ANTI-MUSLIM HATE |
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On September 15, I supported a resolution adopting a working definition of Islamophobia to help the City identify and address anti-Muslim hate and reaffirm our commitment to religious freedom and civil rights.
This issue hit close to home. Amin Abdullah, one of the three men killed while protecting children and staff during the May attack at the Islamic Center of San Diego, was a District 4 resident. He was our neighbor, and his loss is a reminder that hate and violence are not abstract issues. They affect real families and real communities.
I have been clear that hate, discrimination and violence against any community have no place in our city. Every resident deserves to feel safe in their place of worship, in their neighborhood, at school and in their daily life without being targeted because of their faith, appearance or background.
Supporting this resolution was about ensuring we do not ignore hate when we see it. It gives the City another tool to better recognize anti-Muslim discrimination, take these concerns seriously and continue standing up for the safety, dignity and civil rights of all San Diegans. |
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MAKING DISTRICT 4 STREETS SAFER |
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Earlier this year, I supported the City’s new Speed Management Plan and the funding needed to begin implementing it. The goal is simple: reduce dangerous speeds, improve safety around our schools and neighborhoods and make our streets safer for everyone who walks, bikes and drives in District 4.
Work began in District 4 over the summer, with more than 400 new speed limit signs installed throughout Southeastern San Diego, including more than 250 signs near schools. In qualifying school zones, speed limits can now be reduced to as low as 15 mph, helping to slow traffic where students and families walk every day.
This work is part of a greater Citywide effort that will continue throughout the fiscal year as crews move through additional communities across southeastern San Diego and the rest of the City.
Street safety remains a priority for me. I will continue supporting practical improvements that help reduce dangerous driving, protect pedestrians and create safer streets for District 4 residents and families. |
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HELPING KEEP TRANSIT AFFORDABLE |
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This month, MTS and NCTD fare increases took effect across the region. I voted NO on the fare increases because I remain concerned about the impact higher transportation costs can have on working families, seniors and residents who rely on public transit every day.
At the same time, I support the new PRONTO LIFE program, which helps eligible riders enrolled in CalFresh, Medi-Cal or CalWORKs continue accessing reduced transit fares. Through the program, eligible riders can continue paying $2.50 for a one-way trip, $6 for a day pass and $72 for a monthly pass.
Keeping public transportation accessible matters, especially for residents who depend on it to get to work, school, medical appointments and other essential services. I encourage eligible District 4 residents to learn more about PRONTO LIFE and to apply for the reduced-fare program. |
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DEMANDING ACCOUNTABILITY FOR TRASH BILLING ERRORS |
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In September, a City data-transfer error caused incorrect trash-fee amounts to appear on approximately 87,000 County property tax statements. Some residents were charged more than they actually owed, with some overcharges exceeding $1,000.
At the September 23 Budget and Government Efficiency Committee meeting, I called this what it was: an operational failure. An error of this magnitude is unacceptable. Residents should be able to trust that information provided by the City is accurate, especially when it determines what they are being charged.
I also made clear that accountability starts at the top. The Mayor chose to take on the duties of Chief Operating Officer, which comes with responsibility for City operations. I called for immediate action, accountability and answers about how an error affecting 87,000 accounts was allowed to happen.
The City has since provided corrected information to the County, but fixing the numbers does not erase the failure that caused this situation. As Chair of the Budget and Government Efficiency Committee, I will continue demanding stronger oversight and better execution from City leadership.
San Diegans deserve better. |
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REPAVING REYNOLDS STREET |
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In September, the City’s Transportation Department began work to repave Reynolds Street between Palin Street and Coban Street, replacing a stretch of roadway that had not received major repair work since 1978.
The segment had a pavement condition rating of 17 out of 100, placing it in the City’s “Serious” condition category. Crews were scheduled to mill and pave the roadway over a two-week period, with striping to follow. This is exactly the kind of long-overdue infrastructure work I want to see happening in District 4. These permanent repairs will improve driving conditions, reduce the need for repeated pothole maintenance, and help extend the life of our streets.
I'll continue pushing to ensure District 4 streets receive the investment and attention they need. |
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HOLDING CITY LEASEHOLDERS ACCOUNTABLE |
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At the September 2 Audit Committee meeting, I reviewed findings from the City Auditor regarding the City’s lease with Barnes Tennis Center. The audit identified lease, permitting and environmental violations, along with weaknesses in how the City enforces requirements on City-owned property.
The audit also found that the current lease, which dates back to 1994, requires just $600 per year in rent, or $50 per month. That no longer reflects the scale of the operation or the value of the public asset being used.
As the City continues to face significant budget challenges, we cannot afford to overlook outdated agreements or missed opportunities to ensure public assets are managed responsibly. Every City-owned property and lease should be regularly reviewed, properly enforced and structured to protect the public interest.
As Chair of the Budget and Government Efficiency Committee, I will continue to push for stronger enforcement, updated agreements and better oversight so that the City makes the most responsible use of the resources entrusted to us. |
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KEEPING DISTRCIT 4 CLEAN |
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CELEBRATING SCIENCE, ART, AND YOUNG MINDS |
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The Southeastern Science & Art Expo recently brought families, students, educators, and community partners together for a day centered on learning, creativity, and exploration. Young people had the opportunity to engage with science, art, and hands-on activities while discovering new interests and connecting with resources available in their own community. Creating spaces where our youth can learn, imagine, and be inspired is an important investment in their future. Thank you to everyone who helped make this event possible. |
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BUILDING A HEALTHIER DISTRICT 4 |
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It was great to join Project New Village for its 5th Annual Health & Healing Summerfest at the Educational Cultural Complex. The event brought residents together around health, food, culture, and community while highlighting the importance of access to healthy food and stronger local food systems. Project New Village continues to do important work connecting residents with resources and creating opportunities for healthier living in southeastern San Diego. I appreciate their continued commitment to building a healthier and more connected District 4. |
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CELEBRATING LAO CULTURE AND TRADITION |
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It was an honor to attend the 11th Annual Lao Boat Racing Festival and present a Proclamation alongside Council President Pro Tem Kent Lee in recognition of this special celebration. The festival brought families and community members together to celebrate Lao heritage, cultural traditions, and the strength of the Lao community in San Diego. Events like this help preserve culture while also creating opportunities for neighbors from across the city to learn, connect, and celebrate together. Thank you to the Lao Community Cultural Center of San Diego for the warm welcome and for continuing this important tradition. |
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HONORING THE LEGACY OF NEAL PETTIES |
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I was honored to join Neal Petties’ family, friends, and members of the Mountain View community for the unveiling of the Neal Petties Mountain View Community Park sign. Mr. Petties built an incredible legacy through both his years in professional football and his 25 years of service with the City’s Parks and Recreation Department. His impact on the community extended far beyond the field, and this park now stands as a lasting reminder of his service and commitment to others. It was a privilege to celebrate his life and the mark he left on District 4. |
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CELEBRATING 99 YEARS OF MS. RUTH LIGONS |
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It was a joy to celebrate Ms. Ruth Ligons on her 99th birthday and recognize the incredible legacy she has built in District 4. For 60 years, she has called this community home, giving back through her faith, generosity, and support of foster youth, scholarships, youth programs, seniors, and families. Her decades of service have touched countless lives and reflect the kind of community spirit that makes District 4 special. In recognition of her many contributions, I was honored to proclaim September 26, 2026, as “Ruth Ligons Day” in District 4. I wish Ms. Ruth continued joy, love, and many more blessings. |
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CONNECTING OLDER ADULTS WITH RESOURCES |
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I joined County Supervisor Monica Montgomery Steppe to host an Older Adult Resource Fair focused on connecting older adults and their families with useful information, services, and support. Residents had the opportunity to learn more about health and wellness, legal protections, cybersecurity, and other resources that can help them remain safe, informed, and connected. Making sure our older adults have what they need is an important part of building a stronger community. Thank you to our community partners and everyone who participated. |
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TEAM FOSTER SUBMITTED
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360 REPORTS (SEPTEMBER) |
Get It Done Issue @ S. Radio Dr. |
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Get It Done Issue @ Jarrett Ct. |
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Get It Done Issue @ S. 47th St. |
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SNOICE |
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This month, I am proud to spotlight Snoice, a family-owned Filipino American dessert shop that has been serving our community since 2015. What began as a small pop-up inside Kababayan Bakery grew into a permanent neighborhood business rooted in family, culture, and community. Co-owner Jayrell Ringpis grew up in District 4, attended Bethune Elementary, and graduated from Morse High School, making Snoice a true example of a local business giving back to the community that helped shape it.
Snoice is known for its halo-halo, ube boba drinks, shaved snow, and other desserts that bring together generations of families and celebrate Filipino American culture. But the business has always been about more than what is on the menu. Snoice has built its identity around creating a welcoming place for families and friends to gather, while also supporting local schools, community events, fundraisers, and youth programs throughout southeastern San Diego.
That commitment to community has been part of Snoice from the beginning. In 2016, the owners launched Made in Paradise Hills, a nonprofit that helped organize night markets and open mics that brought together families, small businesses, artists, and community organizations. Today, that same spirit continues through Snoice’s growing partnerships with local schools and youth organizations.
As we recognize Filipino American History Month, Snoice is a great example of the entrepreneurship, culture, and community pride that Filipino American families continue to bring to District 4 and the San Diego region. The business is currently expanding its work with local schools, offering qualifying fundraisers that can return up to 20% to support school programs. Small businesses like Snoice do more than provide goods and services. They create jobs, bring people together, support local organizations, and help build the character of our neighborhoods. I encourage District 4 residents to stop by, support this local family-owned business, and enjoy something sweet.
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Learn more: snoicesd.com Instagram: @snoicesd
Snoice |
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OCTOBER 2026 |
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Fall Carnival October 16, 2026 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm Paradise Hills Recreation Center 6610 Potomac St., San Diego, CA 92139 |
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Webster Green Alley Party October 17, 2026 9:00 am - 12:30 pm Marilou Road Alley San Diego, CA 92102 |
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Pumpkin Painting September 21, 2026 4:00 pm Oak Park Library 2802 54th St., San Diego, CA 92105 |
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Thriller Thursday Halloween Event October 22, 2026 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm Encanto Recreation Center 6508 Wunderlin Ave., San Diego, CA 92114 |
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Fall Festival October 23, 2026 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm Bay Terraces Community & Senior Center 7445 Tooma St., San Diego, CA 92139 |
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Nuestra Cultura October 24, 2026 11:00 am - 1:00 pm Oak Park Library 2802 54th St., San Diego, CA 92105 |
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Trunk or Treat October 27, 2026 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm Oak Park Library 2802 54th St., San Diego, CA 92105 |
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Halloween Carnival October 30, 2026 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm Willie Henderson Sports Complex 1045 S 45th St., San Diego, CA 92113 |
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Halloween Hike & Monster Mash October 31, 2026 9:00 am - 12:00 pm Emerald Hills Neighborhood Park 1501 Kelton Rd., San Diego, CA 92114 |
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Halloween Pumpkin Archery Party October 31, 2026 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm Chollas Lake Park 6350 College Grove Dr., San Diego, CA 92115 |
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Haunted Carnival October 31, 2026 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm Skyline Hills Recreation Center 8285 Skyline Dr., San Diego, CA 92114 |
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LATER 2026 |
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Dinner with the Bulls Thanksgiving Event November 19, 2026 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm Encanto Recreation Center 6508 Wunderlin Ave., San Diego, CA 92114 |
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Gobble & Give November 21, 2026 10:00 am - 12:00 pm Mountain View Community Center 641 S Boundary St., San Diego, CA 92113 |
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REGULAR MONTHLY EVENTS |
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Southeast Art Team SD Mural Maintenance Every Second Saturday 9:00 am Various Mural Locations For Info: SESDcollective@gmail.com |
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Open Mic / Neo Soul Every Third Saturday 5:00 - 9:00 pm The Mental Bar 6325 Imperial Ave., San Diego, CA 92114 |
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Intro to Archery (Adults Only) Every Monday 4:00 - 5:00 pm Chollas Lake Park 6350 College Grove Dr., San Diego, CA 92115 |
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Tai Chi Moving For Better Balance Every Tuesday and Thursday 8:00 am - 9:00 am Market Creek Plaza 366 Euclid Ave., Suite 502, San Diego, CA 92114 |
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Teen Tuesdays Every Tuesday 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm Oak Park Library 2802 54th St., San Diego, CA 92105 |
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Bingo Night Every Wednesday 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm Oak Park Library 2802 54th St., San Diego, CA 92105 |
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Open Mic (Every 4th Monday) 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm Community Actor's Theatre 2957 54th St., San Diego, CA 92105 |
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Morning Mingle Walk (Seniors Only) Every Wednesday 9:00 - 10:00 am Chollas Lake Park 6350 College Grove Dr., San Diego, CA 92115 |
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Stroller Story Time (0- 4 years old) Every Wednesday 12:00 - 1:00 pm Chollas Lake Park 6350 College Grove Dr., San Diego, CA 92115 |
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Needles, Hooks & Good Books: Every Saturday 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm Oak Park Library 2802 54th St., San Diego, CA 92105 |
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Intro to Archery (ages 8 and up) Every Saturday and Sunday 12:00 - 1:00 pm Chollas Lake Park 6350 College Grove Dr., San Diego, CA 92115 |
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Fishing for Kids (ages 15 and Under) Every Saturday and Sunday 11:30 am - 2:30 pm Chollas Lake 6350 College Grove Dr., San Diego, CA 92115 |
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Senior Resources & Centers |
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Call Center - 800-339-4661 |
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Discover resources and support services for older adults, individuals with disabilities, and their families. |
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Services:
Help with living at home Healthy Living Meals & Senior Dining Safety Mental Health Financial/ Legal Health Insurance Services |
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795 S. Boundary Street San Diego, CA 92113
Phone: 858-221-2225 |
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Hours: Wednesdays 9:00–2:00 pm |
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Services:
Healthy breakfast and lunch Arts & Crafts Painting classes Exercise Field Trips Health and nutrition education Transportation Walking group |
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570 S. 65th Street San Diego, CA 92114
Phone: 619-266-2066 |
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Activities: Glide and Stride Walkers Feelin’ Fit Exercise Line Dancing S.W.A.G (Single Widowed Adult Group) Feeding San Diego Food Distribution Friday Lunch
Congregate at GLS Senior Center
Pick-ups & Homebound |
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7445 Tooma Street San Diego, CA 92139
Phone: 619-527-7632 |
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Activities:
Karaoke Jam Session Line Dancing Golden Zumba Beginners Ballroom Dancing Evening Line Dancing Zumba - Adult Serving Seniors Free meals to seniors 50+ Weekend meals available for pickup |
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Want to make a difference in your neighborhood? |
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✔️ Connect with Our Office Call (619) 236‑6644 or email HenryFoster@sandiego.gov |
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Your voice matters. That’s why I created “Foster Fridays” to meet with you, the residents of District 4, on Fridays at the Southeastern Live Well Center. Email me to schedule an appointment: HenryFoster@sandiego.gov. I look forward to meeting you.
Office Hours: Fridays | 1:30 PM - 4:30 PM |
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✔️ Report Issues Use the GET IT DONE app to report potholes, streetlights, and more |
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✔️ Attend Meetings Join City Council meetings virtually or in person |
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✔️ Join a Planning Group Attend your local community planning group meetings |
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Let’s build a stronger District 4, together. |
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Henry L. Foster III Councilmember, District 4 City of San Diego
City Administration Building (619) 236-6644 |
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